Queen’s honour for East Lancs companies’ export excellence

TWO East Lancashire businesses have been honoured in this year’s Queen’s Awards for Enterprise (QAE).

What More UK Limited, in Shorten Brook Way, on Altham Business Park, and Carradice of Nelson, a bicycle bag company in St Mary’s Street, have been recognised for overseas success.

The QAE in International Trade 2014 has been described as ‘the highest accolade in business success’ and the company will hold the title for five years.

The Queen will recognise their achievements with a reception at Buckingham Palace in July.

What More director Tony Grimshaw said: “We are celebrating being named as winners of the award, which are only granted to business that can demonstrate outstanding levels of excellence.

“It is with immense satisfaction and pride that What More made this announcement.

“The award goes to all 165 employees who have all helped to win this outstanding business award.

“We would also like to thank UK Trade and Investment, BHETA, our local MPs Graham Jones and Gordon Birtwistle, Dennis Mendoros The High Sheriff of Lancashire, Burnley RUFC and Groundwork Pennine Lancashire, who have all been involved with our nomination for this this award.

“A big thank you also goes to our suppliers and customers who, without their on-going support, we would not be where we are today. We can’t wait to fly the Queen’s Award for Enterprise flag outside our headquarters.”

The business currently exports to 48 countries.

Last year the company opened its latest development, a 101,710ft2 distribution facility – the first phase of a £8million expansion plan and will be shortly followed with another 88,000ft2 construction.

Both developments have enabled the company to bring their manufacturing and distribution operations under one roof.